Hotel and guest house owners in Aberdeenshire will be offered free loans to up their game and improve standards for visitors.
Financial support will now be on offer after a report found that accommodation in the region was generally “below par” due to a lack of investment.
In a report to Aberdeenshire Council, director of infrastructure services Stephen Archer highlighted concerns about a lack of boutique-style hotels and free wi-fi for guests, and said in many cases guests were unable to book online – an issue that risked a “significant” loss of trade.
But last night those working in the hospitality industry gave a mixed reception to the report, and said most hotels and guest houses work hard to offer a high standard of stay.
Hotels and businesses will also be urged to join the Visit Scotland star scheme to give guests a clear guide to the standard on offer.
Frank Budd, chairman of Stonehaven Tourism Group, who also runs Gleniffer Bed and Breakfast with his wife Anne, said standards were already high in the town but that the funding would be welcomed by some.
He said: “One of the biggest problems is that quite a few bed and breakfasts don’t want to go for the grading through Visit Scotland.
“Getting the grading is good for business and it is good for visitors but some people don’t like to be checked out.
“If we can encourage people to join the scheme it would help to raise the bar.”
Alan Skinner, of Greenbrae Farmhouse B&B near Peterhead, said: “It is really down to the personal pride of the owner but I would say people generally try to do their best.
“We have invested a lot into our property and I would like to think we offer something a bit different.”
Funding will now be made available to hotels and guesthouses to upgrade their websites to encourage internet bookings.
Businesses will be now offered up to £300 to join the Visit Scotland standards scheme with loans available to make physical improvements to accommodation, such as installing en-suite bathrooms.
A spokesperson for Aberdeenshire Council said: “Tourism is a major priority for Aberdeenshire Council and we are committed to help increase the quality and quantity of visitor accommodation in the shire.”